Background Processing

Background processing involves investigation by management of an employee's job history and personal references, ensuring that qualified personnel are placed in an organization. This process is also known as a background check.
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Definition

Background Processing or Background Check refers to the systematic investigation of a prospective employee’s history, typically conducted by management or a designated human resources department. This process involves reviewing personal references, employment history, criminal records, and sometimes financial records to ensure that candidates are qualified and suitable for the position they are being considered for. Although this process can be time-consuming and expensive, it plays a critical role in safeguarding the company’s interests and ensuring a trustworthy workplace.

Examples

  1. Employment Verification: Checking the work history and job titles claimed by a candidate in their resume.
  2. Education Verification: Ensuring that the educational qualifications claimed by the candidate are legitimate.
  3. Criminal Background Check: Reviewing any criminal records to assess potential risks to the organization.
  4. Reference Check: Contacting previous employers or personal references to gather insights about the candidate’s character and work ethics.
  5. Credit Check: Sometimes performed, especially for roles that involve financial responsibilities, to assess financial stability and trustworthiness.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the purpose of a background check?

The primary purpose of a background check is to verify the information provided by a candidate and to ensure they have the qualifications and character suitable for the position, thereby minimizing risks to the company.

What information is typically checked during a background check?

Typically, background checks include employment history, educational qualifications, criminal records, credit reports (for some positions), and sometimes social media profiles.

How long does a background check take?

The length of time for a background check can vary, but it typically takes between 3 to 10 business days, depending on the depth of the investigation.

Yes, background checks are legal, but employers must comply with federal and state laws, including getting consent from the candidate and ensuring confidentiality of the results.

Can a candidate fail a background check?

Yes, a candidate can fail a background check if there are discrepancies in their information, criminal records, poor references, or other red flags identified during the investigation.

  • Employment Verification: A component of the background check process that confirms a candidate’s past job titles, employers, durations of employment, and job duties.
  • Criminal Record Check: A check that identifies any past criminal activities that the candidate may have been involved in.
  • Credit Report Check: An examination of the candidate’s financial history to assess their financial responsibility and stability.
  • Reference Check: Contacting previous employers or listed references to gather information about the candidate’s work behavior and character.

Online References

Suggested Books for Further Studies

  1. “The Background Check Book: Outrunning the Past, Empower Your Future” by Lester Rosen
  2. “Employee Background Checks: Investigating Before Hiring” by Barry Jackson
  3. “Background Screening Primer: How to Protect Your Business by Using Background Checks” by Roy A. Reid Jr.
  4. “Careers at Risk: Background Screening Practices Critical to the Building of a Prevention Checklist Plan” by Evie Watts

Fundamentals of Background Processing: Human Resources Basics Quiz

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Background Investigation